Mitchell Kaplan Is Enjoying His Lifes Journey One Page At A Time

As major corporate book-selling chains redefined a once-alternative industry, luring in the masses with discounts and coffee, independent bookstores folded nationwide. The American Booksellers Association’s 6,000-person membership of 25 years ago has dwindled to about 1,600. Still, Greater Miami’s own Books & Books is still standing — and thriving. The store celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. It hosts now more than 60 events a month, presenting high-profile speakers such as Bill Clinton and Barbara Walters. A store recently opened in the Cayman Islands, one is planned for Miami International Airport, and owner Mitchell Kaplan is eyeing Brickell as another potential locale. Mr. Kaplan — never a bookworm or businessman, always a lover of books, he says — strives to spread a love of literary culture and considers bookstores community centers. He co-founded the Miami Book Fair International, also approaching its 25th year. Mr. Kaplan talked books with Miami Today staff writer Risa Polansky at his flagship Coral Gables store. This is an excerpt from the weekly profile article published in Miami Today. To read the entire article in full, order this issue or subscribe to the print edition of Miami Today.